Preventing electrical fires

Electrical fires are one of the top causes of house fires in Canada. This page provides a general overview of electrical cord, plug, and appliance safety. You may also find it helpful to speak with a certified electrician.

Disconnect small appliances when not in use, for instance when you are on vacation.

Check for inadequate electrical wiring

Older homes and apartments can have inadequate wiring. This can be a fire hazard and an electrical hazard. If your home matches any of the statements below, contact a certified electrician to inspect your electrical system.

You unplug one appliance before plugging in another appliance, otherwise you may trip a circuit breaker or blow a fuse.

You run multiple extension cords, or plug multiple cords into a single outlet because you don't have enough outlets.

Your furniture arrangement options are limited if you need to be close to electrical outlets.

Your small appliances, such as toasters or irons, are slow to heat.

You notice that the lights dim when you use certain appliances.

You enter rooms and stairways in darkness because there are not enough three- or four-way light switches.

Find out more about fire and life safety

Vancouver Fire and Rescue Services teach fire and life safety courses where you can learn valuable life and safety skills, and gain hands on fire extinguishing experience. Register yourself, or arrange for us to teach your group to prevent fires in your home, business, school, and other private and public places.